an original copy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an original copy" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a document that is the first version or the authentic version of a particular item, often in legal or formal contexts. Example: "Please submit an original copy of the contract for our records."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Someone oh his staff produced an original copy of the official song of the Commission.

The New Yorker

They asked to see an original copy of his birth certificate, she said.

The New York Times - Sports

Together with the television producer Norman Lear, he bought an original copy of the Declaration of Independence.

The New York Times - Tech

"I'm not sure I could have been more delighted if he'd handed me an original copy of the Magna Carta.

The New York Times

Declare Yourself evolved from the Declaration of Independence Road Trip, a touring exhibition of an original copy of that document.

The New York Times - Arts

I picked up an original copy of Elvis: What Happened? at a jumble sale in the Isles of Scilly.

Independent

The minutes of early meetings at the synagogue were recorded in Yiddish, and an original copy of the rules, in Yiddish, hangs on a wall.

The New York Times

They found an original copy of the issue and had it FedExed to the UK to scan in and blow up.

The Guardian - Music

They're just all very funny…" I've got an original copy of this book – the one with the orange cover - and Spike's face looming out on the front.

The Guardian

It is reported that an original copy of this album recently changed hands for £1,000, probably more than it cost to record.

The Guardian - Music

And the easiest way to do that was to get your hands on an original copy on CD and encode it to an MP3.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When submitting important documents, always retain a photocopy or digital scan of the "an original copy" for your records.

Common error

Don't assume that "an original copy" is automatically 'authentic'. While it denotes the first or source version, verify its authenticity to ensure it's not a forgery.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an original copy" functions as a noun phrase, specifically as a countable noun, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition within a sentence. It identifies a specific instance of a document or item that is the first or authentic version. As Ludwig AI states, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an original copy" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to denote the authentic or first version of a document or item. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted and understood. Its usage is most prevalent in news and media, followed by wiki articles and science-related contexts. While often used interchangeably with similar phrases like "an authentic copy" or "a genuine copy", it's important to verify its authenticity to avoid confusion. Remember to always keep a copy of any original documents you submit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an authentic copy

Replaces 'original' with 'authentic', emphasizing genuineness.

a genuine copy

Substitutes 'original' with 'genuine', highlighting the real and untampered nature of the copy.

a true copy

Indicates that the copy accurately replicates the original.

the initial copy

Focuses on the copy being the first one made.

the master copy

Implies the copy is the definitive version from which others are made.

the definitive version

Highlights that this copy is considered to be the most authoritative or complete.

a primary copy

Highlights the copy as being of first importance or rank.

a first edition

More appropriate for books or printed materials, referring to the first published form.

the source document

Shifts focus to the document being the source or origin of information.

a certified copy

Implies the copy has been officially verified.

FAQs

How do you use "an original copy" in a sentence?

"An original copy" is used to refer to the authentic or first version of a document or item. For example: "Please provide "an original copy" of your birth certificate."

What is another way to say "an original copy"?

Alternatives to "an original copy" include "an authentic copy", "a genuine copy", or "a true copy", depending on the specific context.

Is it necessary to submit "an original copy" or will a photocopy suffice?

Often, official institutions require "an original copy" to verify the authenticity of the document. Photocopies may not be accepted in these cases.

What's the difference between "an original copy" and a 'duplicate'?

"An original copy" is the first or authentic version, while a 'duplicate' is a copy made from the original. The key difference is that the duplicate is not the primary source.